Northern Michigan University, located in Marquette, Michigan, is a dynamic four-year, public, comprehensive university that has grown its reputation based on its award-winning leadership programs, cutting-edge technology initiatives and nationally recognized academic programs. Northern has a population of about 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students.

Ask a few Northern students what drew them to our university and you will get a variety of answers. That's because there is no single thing that make students want to go to Northern; it is ALL the things that we do here. Northern is big enough to offer a wide variety of academic programs but is also small enough that every time you walk across campus, you'll probably wave "hi" to someone you know.

Curiosity is the raw ingredient of knowledge. It causes us to ask questions, to seek answers, to learn. At Northern Michigan University, natural curiosity and intellectual challenge meet in stimulating classes grounded in the liberal arts. So wherever your curiosity leads you, you can count on the support you need to take the next step, ask the next question, propose the next hypothesis.

The mission of the Northern Michigan University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, Recreational Sports and the United States Olympic Training Site is to create an environment that promotes academic excellence, interpersonal growth and social development; embraces diversity; teaches lifetime leisure skills; fosters spirit and tradition; and builds a lifelong connection to NMU.

Yes, you'll attend your classes, but what else will you be doing as a student at Northern? There's so much stuff to choose from. There's a student organization or club – almost 300 at last count-- for just about every interest. If you're into investigating the paranormal, anime or improv comedy, there's a group. Cheer on your fellow Wildcats at a hockey game or volleyball match. Join a competitive club sport or an intramural team. The sky is the limit.

Kari Garcia

Hometown: I grew up in Rapid River, Mich., 60 miles south of NMU. So I am a Yooper at heart.

Professional/personal biography: I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast and Cinematic Arts from Central Michigan University in 2003. After graduation I set off for the east coast to explore and start a new adventure. I started my career in the admissions office at the New England Culinary Institute. It was awesome and I had a great time, but I still can’t cook. I have always worked in college admissions and I love it. It is so amazing to be able to help students with such an important decision in their lives. After several years out east, I decided it was time to head back to the Mid-west to be closer to my family. I lived in Chicago for eight years and earned a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership from Dominican University. I grew tired of big city life and I am now living in the U.P. and enjoying all that Marquette has to offer, with my husband, son and three cats.

Most memorable college experience: Studying abroad. I went to Prague, Czech Republic, for a month to study literature the summer before my senior year in college. It was unbelievable! I was able to learn Czech, see some very cool historical sites, take a road trip to Munich, Germany, learn poetry from some of the best poets in the world, take a Mike’s Bike tour of the city and hang out with some cool new people. I highly encourage you to check out the study abroad programs at NMU. It will be worth it.

Favorite Marquette activity: Kayaking in Lake Superior. There is nothing like the serenity of the lake to help you decompress after a busy day.

Best advice you received regarding college or would give someone else entering college: As my parents dropped me off to move into the residence halls for the first time, my mom hugged me and said, while crying of course, “This is the first day of the rest of your life. Make the most of it!” I have always agreed with that statement. I would also say, try to manage your time the best you can. Make sure to schedule time to study, go to class, sleep, exercise and, of course, socialize. Your parents won’t be there to tell you to go to bed or get your homework done, so you need to make sure that you are keeping your body and mind healthy.